COPYRIGHT

1. What is Copyright?

Copyright is a legal right that protects original creative works such as:

 Books, writings, poems

  Music, songs, sound recordings

  Movies, short films, videos

  Paintings, drawings, photographs

  Computer software & code

  Websites, architectural designs

  Educational materials, research work

  Choreography, dramatic works

Copyright gives the creator exclusive rights to reproduce, publish, distribute, perform, and display the work.

2. Law Governing Copyright in India

In India, copyright is protected under the Copyright Act, 1957, and is administered by the Copyright Office, Government of India.

3. Benefits of Copyright Registration

 Provides legal ownership over the work

  Protects against copying, plagiarism & misuse

  Offers evidence in court during disputes

  Allows the owner to license, sell, or transfer the work

  Helps in earning royalty income

  Protects digital content and online usage

Note: Copyright exists automatically upon creation, but registration provides strong legal proof.

4. What Can Be Copyrighted?

  Literary Works (books, articles, scripts)

 Artistic Works (logos, paintings, designs)

 Musical Works (lyrics, compositions)

  Sound Recordings

 Cinematograph Films

  Computer Software & Apps

  Websites & Digital Content

  Architectural Works

  Training Material, Research Papers, Study Notes

5. Documents Required for Copyright Registration

  Creator/Author’s Name, Address, ID Proof

 Copies of the work (PDF, JPG, MP3, MP4, etc.)

  NOC from author (if applicant and author are different)

  NOC from publisher (if published)

  Power of Attorney (if filing through agent)

  Soft copy of the work uploaded online

6. Process of Copyright Registration (Online)

Step 1: Application Filing (Form XIV)

Online filing through the Government Copyright Office portal.

Step 2: Diary Number Issued

A unique number issued after successful submission.

Step 3: 30-Day Waiting Period

For objections from third parties.

Step 4: Examination by Copyright Office

Registrar examines the work.

Step 5: Clarification / Hearing (if required)

Step 6: Registration Certificate Issued

After approval, a digital certificate is granted.

7. Validity of Copyright

  Lifetime of the author + 60 years after death

  For films, sound recordings, photographs: 60 years from publication